Avid readers invited to local book club
SAVOY – Members can join the club for a R50 monthly fee which allows them to lend as many books as they like.
Avid readers are invited to join the book club at Savoy Library on the first Thursday of every month.
The Gazette visited the small gathering on February 3 to find out what all the fuss was about.
Eleven-year member of the club Jennifer Stacey said the group was founded out of a concern for public libraries not having the funds to purchase new books.
“We created a non-profit to see more people going to the library and allow us to buy books which can be donated to the local libraries thereafter,” said Stacey.
Club organiser Penny Abbott said the group began at the Rosebank Library in the early 2000s with the purpose of raising funds to purchase library stock. Later, the group moved to the Savoy Library following safety concerns.
Members are required to pay R50 to join each month and can borrow as many books as they like.
Funds are used to purchase four new books each month which would eventually be put into the Savoy Library.
“We have 33 members on our list but see between 12 and 25 people coming through on a monthly basis,” said Abbott.
A few members share book reviews during the session before members decide which books to borrow for the next month.
“We have a wide range of fiction and non-fiction new books and fantastic members, many of whom come from librarian or academic backgrounds. The quality of reviews in our group is amazing.
“It’s the best bargain secret in Johannesburg. It’s the most cost-effective way of reading new books and helps to expand your knowledge and worldview.”
Members will also enjoy tea and treats as well as good company.
The next meeting will take place at 13:30 for 14:00 on March 3.
For more information, email Penny at pennyabbott@mweb.co.za
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